Barefoot Horse Trimming

A horse without metal shoes applied to the hooves is considered "barefoot." According to the Horse and Rider magazine article "Is Barefoot Better?" by Jennifer Forsberg Meyer, veterinarians such as Dr. Robert Bowker and farriers like Pete Ramey believe keeping a horse barefoot helps it develop a hardier hoof over time.

  1. Trimming Methods

    • There are two ways to give a horse a barefoot trim. A "pasture trim" occurs when a horse's excess hoof growth is removed. Some farriers may use a "natural trim" instead, with a particular methodology based on observations from feral horses, according to Meyer's article. There are various types of natural trims, such as the method promoted by the American Association of Natural Hoof Care Practitioners or the Strasser Method.

    Hoof Structure

    • When a horse walks, unshod hooves are better able to expand and absorb concussion. This is because the unshod hoof has a larger surface area compared to the metal walked on by a horse wearing shoes. The expansion also helps blood flow through the hoof.

    Hoof Boots

    • Some horse owners that have decided to keep a horse without shoes will sometimes use rubber or plastic hoof boots when riding to protect the horse's hooves. These boots protect the horse's soles from rocks until the horse is accustomed to walking on rough surfaces again.